DonnaMarie Woodson Receives National Volunteer Award for Commitment to Cancer Advocacy
Local Cancer Advocate Receives National Recognition from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN)
CHARLOTTE, NC – September 15, 2022 – DonnaMarie Woodson was awarded (ACT!) Lead of the Year by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) for her exceptional commitment to advocacy work and making cancer a national priority.
This annual award is given to a lead congressional district volunteer who has demonstrated remarkable leadership advocating for ACS CAN’s mission priority areas of cancer-related public policy.
“DonnaMarie is a tireless advocate who speaks on behalf of all those fighting cancer, both in her community in North Carolina and across the country,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “Her outstanding efforts are reflected in her ability to swiftly organize and mobilize a robust team of local volunteers to champion strong and effective public policy proven to end suffering and death from cancer. DonnaMarie has also been a leader in our ongoing efforts to reach all communities impacted by cancer and we applaud the impact she is having.”
For over 6 years, DonnaMarie’s voice has brought incredible value to efforts locally in Charlotte and statewide to reduce the cancer burden – North Carolina’s leading cause of death. She currently serves on the ACS CAN Black Volunteer Caucus where she has led work to create a more equitable, diverse and inclusive organization as the advocacy affiliate continues its work to address the significant cancer disparities in Black and rural communities.
This year, DonnaMarie was featured in the new Medicaid Covers US short film where she shared her powerful story as a two-time cancer survivor, bringing awareness to the important role access to care plays in survivorship.
“DonnaMarie is one of the most reliable and awe-inspiring volunteers I know,” noted Jon Charest, North Carolina Grassroots Manager for ACS CAN. “She is incredibly passionate about advocating for cancer patients and their families and relentless in her efforts to do so any chance she gets. She continues to amaze us all and exceed expectations. I am honored to know her, work with her on this lifesaving mission as she receives this immense recognition.”
The award was presented on Sept. 11 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. Nearly 700 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones met in-person for the first time since 2019 with their elected officials on Sept. 13 to urge them to make cancer a national priority.